A National vision for Australia’s mental health
and suicide prevention system.
Helping people navigate and choose the most suitable care options, whether that’s face-to-face, via phone or online.
Medicare Mental Health also makes it easier for GPs and other health professionals to support the mental health of the people they look after, and those who support them, through improving access to, and coordination of, mental health services in their local community.
Medicare Mental Health is an Australian Government initiative that helps people to access the mental health and wellbeing services that are right for them.
It comprises of a digital platform, phone service and a network of Medicare Mental Health Centres.
Digital platform – medicarementalhealth.gov.au
The website includes evidence based digital mental health resources, apps and online programs. This includes dedicated online forums, peer support services, chat and email services.
Phone service – 1800 595 212
This state-wide phone service offers free confidential assessment and referral for anyone seeking help for their mental and emotional wellbeing and/or wanting to support a patient, or someone they care about.
The phone service uses the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST) to determine the most appropriate level of care for individuals seeking mental health support. This is helping to create a common language across the mental health sector about patients’ treatment needs. If consumers call the phone service number directly, a qualified clinician will use the IAR-DST to guide them to suitable treatment options to support their level of need.
Training is also available for GPs in the use of this tool. Designed to complement the GP or clinician’s clinical judgement, IAR-DST is best used as part of a comprehensive mental health assessment.
One referral is all the GP needs to make as, once the patient is accepted into the system, they are connected to the most appropriate services and supports.
Need help now? Call 1800 595 212 IAR-DST information for GPs and health professionals
Medicare Mental Health Centres
WA Primary Health Alliance led the establishment of a network of Medicare Mental Health Centres (formerly Head to Health services) for WA as part of the Australian Governments National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
The network of Medicare Mental Health Centres will improve access to, and coordination of, mental health services delivered digitally, via telephone and face-to-face.
Medicare Mental Health Centres (formerly Head to Health services) offer a walk-in service providing advice, support and, if needed, assessment and treatment for people 18 years and over experiencing emotional and psychological distress. Services include support for family, carers and friends.
The centres offer immediate, short-term and medium-term care, and help connect people to ongoing services, when required.
There are currently centres in Midland, Gosnells, Mirrabooka, Armadale and Northam.